Assistant Scientist - Physical Chemistry

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, USA

Job posting number: #7317964 (Ref:421193)

Posted: October 10, 2025

Job Description

Argonne’s Chemical Sciences and Engineering (CSE) Division seeks an Assistant Scientist to conduct experimental research in physical chemistry/chemical physics focused on light-matter interactions and effects of nuclear and electronic coherence effects in light energy conversion and photochemical processes. The position will center on the design, commissioning, and application of a new ultrafast laser platform capable of multi-pulse sequences across the violet-to-infrared spectral range with femtosecond time resolution.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead experimental studies to elucidate the role of nuclear and electronic coherence in light-matter interactions and photochemical transformations

  • Design, build, and commission an ultrafast laser system employing multi-pulse sequences spanning violet to infrared wavelengths with femtosecond durations

  • Perform advanced ultrafast spectroscopies, including pump–probe transient absorption, broadband transient absorption, impulsive stimulated Raman, and ultrafast infrared spectroscopy

  • Conduct hands-on experiments in an established laser laboratory and apply structural and dynamic characterization methods, including static and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy

  • Collaborate effectively within a highly interdisciplinary environment with inorganic, organic, and biological chemists, as well as physicists and materials scientists

  • Work independently while contributing to team objectives; disseminate findings through high-impact publications

Position Requirements

  • Ph.D. in field of physical chemistry or physics or related field

  • Extensive hands-on expertise with ultrafast laser spectroscopies (pump–probe transient absorption, broadband transient absorption, impulsive stimulated Raman, ultrafast infrared)

  • Comprehensive knowledge of fundamental mechanisms of light-matter interactions and photochemical energy conversion

  • Deep expertise in photoinduced energy and charge transfer in molecules, molecular assemblies, and aggregates, with emphasis on transition-metal complexes

  • Demonstrated ability to conduct research at the scientific frontier and a strong record of peer-reviewed publications

  • Proven ability to think and work independently and to thrive in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams

  • Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with molecular dynamics simulations and quantum mechanical calculations

RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years of experience, Masters and 3+ years, or PhD and 0+ years, or equivalent

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Chemistry 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $90,063.00 - $143,010.27.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

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More Info

Job posting number:#7317964 (Ref:421193)
Application Deadline:Open Until Filled
Employer Location:Argonne National Laboratory
Argonne,Illinois
United States
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